The Federal Government has announced a major stride in border security with the recent apprehension of 10 individuals on Interpol’s watch list while attempting to enter Nigeria.
The revelation was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during the inauguration of the Technology Innovation Complex at the Nigeria Immigration Service headquarters in Abuja.
The event was graced by President Bola Tinubu, who unveiled the complex as part of efforts to enhance Nigeria’s border management and security.
The Technology Innovation Complex houses cutting-edge facilities, including a Command and Control Centre for monitoring migration, an NIS Data Centre, an ECOWAS Biometric Card Production Centre, and a 0.5KW solar power plant.
Tunji-Ojo explained that the facility has been instrumental in monitoring borders, detecting irregular migration patterns, and identifying high-risk individuals.
“In just one week, 10 people on the Interpol and immigration wanted lists were apprehended. Before now, these individuals could have entered Nigeria and caused terror. Under this new leadership, Nigeria is a no-go area for any criminal element,” he declared.
To ensure seamless operations, the Minister revealed that 250 trained officers now monitor borders 24/7 in eight-hour shifts. He also highlighted the facility’s energy-efficient design, powered by a 0.5KW solar plant.
“What we’ve done is implement an end-to-end solution, including energy sustainability and human capacity development. This ensures round-the-clock surveillance with no disruptions,” he noted.
Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the new complex will save Nigeria over N300 million annually by automating processes such as visa approvals, border management, and information sharing among security agencies.
“We’ve introduced an automated visa regime with approvals granted within 48 hours. Additionally, we’ve enhanced border governance, overseeing over 200 borders effectively,” he said.
The Minister also cited a recent example of enhanced coordination: “During the Maiduguri flooding, we were able to share critical information among security agencies in under three hours.”
The ECOWAS Biometric Card Production Centre, part of the complex, will facilitate easier travel within the sub-region.
Tunji-Ojo described it as a game-changer for regional integration, enabling seamless movement while maintaining robust security.
Tunji-Ojo lauded the support of the Office of the National Security Adviser, emphasizing that the centre’s seven components, including a visa approval centre and solar farm, represent a leap forward in Nigeria’s border management.
“This facility is a testament to our commitment to securing Nigeria’s borders while promoting efficiency and regional collaboration,” he added.
